Stian was shocked at this reveal to say the least. But his confusion was short lived as he focused on the task at hand. Regardless of their gender, Merlin was not fooling around. She knew this was forbidden magic, and Stian was willing to bet that she wasn't going to let it slide easily. "Keep your distance! I don't care if you're a man, woman, or tiger." Stian floods the runes on his arms once again. "I have to finish this spell. You don't understand what this is all for. No power, no glory, no wealth. None of it. I don't care. I just want one chance to reverse the wrong I did. Is one chance too much to ask?" Stian was lost in thought for a second before sighing. "I guess it is to those that make our laws... But I don't care! Have them kill me! Have them burn me alive! Have them banish me! Do what you will, just let me finish this. I ask, I beg for one chance"